Anxiety Drug Pregabalin Linked to Birth Defects

Posted on behalf of O'Connor, Acciani & Levy on May 24, 2016 in Consumer Alerts

A new study published in Neurology has revealed an increase in birth defect risks linked to the drug pregabalin.

Pregabalin is a drug commonly prescribed to treat epilepsy, pain, anxiety, and other brain disorders. Branded Lyrica, pregabalin is approved for use in the U.S. for the treatment of nerve pain and seizures, though some physicians prescribe it off-label to treat generalized anxiety disorder.

A study published by researchers from the Swiss Teratogen Information Service found that women taking pregabalin during pregnancy have an increased risk of giving birth to children with birth defects. The birth defect risk was found to be three times higher if taken in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Researchers also noted animal studies that cited an increased rate of neural tube and skeletal defects in animals who were exposed to pregabalin. These findings increase concern as to the risk of the drug for pregnant women.

Prescribe with Caution

According to the label, pregabalin is not recommended for women who are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. Researchers say this is problematic, as many pregnancies aren't planned; women prescribed pregabalin could be taking the drug before becoming aware of their pregnancies, exposing the fetus to the potentially harmful medication. Of the women studied, 77 percent took pregabalin before they knew they were pregnant.

Researchers note that women taking pregabalin were also likely to take other medications, and more likely to smoke. Additional studies are needed to review the link between pregabalin and birth defect.

The study's senior author states that physicians should increase caution when prescribing drugs to women of childbearing age.

If you were prescribed pregabalin while pregnant and your child was born with birth defects, you may be entitled to compensation. O'Connor, Acciani & Levy's experienced defective drug lawyers can fight for the justice you and your family deserve.

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